Moldova's Education and Research Ministry outlines national anti-doping framework - EXCLUSIVE
The Republic of Moldova has significantly strengthened its national anti-doping framework through enhanced institutional oversight, expanded educational measures, and close alignment with international standards, underscoring its commitment to clean sport and integrity, said Sergiu Gurin, State Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Research of Moldova, in an exclusive interview with CE Report.
According to the Ministry, oversight of anti-doping policy implementation is ensured through a robust national integrity framework in sport, developed in close cooperation with the National Anti-Doping Agency (ANAD) and other relevant institutions. This framework is grounded in the Constitution of the Republic of Moldova, international conventions ratified by the country—including UNESCO and Council of Europe instruments—and the World Anti-Doping Code adopted by WADA.
A central role in this architecture is played by the National Platform for Integrity in Sport, established in 2024, where the Ministry of Education and Research serves as co-chair. The platform facilitates inter-institutional coordination and ensures compliance with the Council of Europe’s Macolin Convention on the manipulation of sports competitions.
Gurin emphasized that all potential anti-doping violations are handled strictly in line with WADA standards and national legislation, with ANAD acting as the primary competent authority. The Ministry supports this process by ensuring institutional coordination and policy coherence.
International coordination represents a key pillar of Moldova’s anti-doping strategy. Senior Ministry officials actively participate in major European and global anti-doping bodies and forums, including Council of Europe expert groups, UNESCO conferences, and WADA events. This engagement enables Moldova to remain aligned with evolving international policies and best practices.
Domestically, cooperation between the Ministry, national sports federations, and international organizations is based on principles of good governance, transparency, and integrity. All national federations affiliated with the Ministry must be members of their respective international federations, comply with anti-doping regulations, and maintain cooperation agreements with ANAD.
Prevention and education remain at the core of Moldova’s approach. Anti-doping education has been integrated into school, sports, and university curricula, while training sessions, public awareness campaigns, and Clean Sport Day initiatives are jointly implemented with ANAD. The Ministry also retains the authority to suspend funding to federations that fail to comply with international anti-doping rules, reinforcing accountability.
Scientific research further supports these efforts, with Moldova participating in national and international research programs focused on juvenile doping prevention, medical education, and innovative anti-doping interventions.
The State Secretary also highlighted the role of flagship initiatives such as the Sports Ambassadors Program and the Capital of Sport project, which leverage the influence of elite athletes to promote ethical values, healthy lifestyles, and clean sport among youth and the wider public.
Through institutional consolidation, international engagement, and a strong emphasis on education and prevention, the Republic of Moldova continues to reinforce its alignment with European and global anti-doping standards, reaffirming its long-term commitment to integrity, fair play, and clean sport.
This interview was prepared by Laura Hoffman
